World's Largest Submarine Fleets

World's Largest Submarine Fleets

Submarines represent ocean power. "Whoever rules the waves rules the world". Countries use these submarines not only to protect their country, but also to project power.

The Big Three

1. United States (70 Submarines):

United States is the most powerful submarine force in the world, not just by numbers, but by capability. All of the submarines are powered by nuclear energy. Most of them are attack submarines, which are smaller and quicker. There are huge submarines as well, which carry cruise missiles, each of them capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Some of these are spread around the globe and no one knows where, this way the United States control the oceans and maintains its place as the most powerful country.

2. Russia (63 Submarines):

Russia has the second largest submarine fleet, with 63 in total. Half of the subs are powered by nuclear energy, and 12 of these can launch nuclear warheads. Others are attack subs, which are quick and hard to track. These can also launch missiles and hit targets precisely.

3. China (61 Submarines):

China has the third largest fleet, with 61 submarines. 6 are attack submarines and 6 are nuclear armed and nuclear powered. Mostly are diesel powered as of now but in coming years 5 new new nuclear powered submarines will be added to fleet.

Large Fleets

Iran (25), Japan (24) and South Korea (22) have advanced Navies and large fleets and are surrounded by regional threats. For Japan and South Korea, North Korea (13) remains a persistent and unpredictable security challenge.

The exact number of submarines operated by North Korea remains uncertain due to the country's secrecy, but estimates suggest it possesses one of the largest submarine fleets in the world, primarily composed of older, diesel powered submarines.

Medium Fleets

India (18), Turkiye (13) and Greece (10) have medium sized fleets. These have advanced diesel powered submarines optimized for long underwater endurance and attack submarines.

Small Fleets

Vietnam, France and United Kingdom have 9 submarines each. Egypt, Italy and Pakistan have 8 submarines each.

While only a few countries have nuclear subs, many others invest in diesel-electric fleets for regional dominance and deterrence.

Strategic Implications

Submarines, especially nuclear-powered and ballistic missile subs, are central to modern deterrence and geopolitical strategy.

The world is entering a new era of great power competition, and submarines are among the most potent symbols of national power.